Preuss recognized as top-performing school

LA JOLLA  The Preuss School at University of California San Diego has been recognized by a professional association as one of the state's top-performing schools at serving children in poverty.

The California Charter Schools Association ranks Preuss No. 15. It is the only San Diego County school on the list. As a charter school, it is a publicly funded school run by an independent board largely composed of UCSD employees.

Last year, an audit found widespread grade tampering at Preuss. A September report commissioned by the university found that Preuss had awarded diplomas to some students who did not meet the school's graduation requirements.

The report also concluded that the school's educational practices and program are strong.

The association examined schools where at least 70 percent of the students are from low-income households.

The academic ratings are based on results from California Standards Tests. There have been no allegations of misconduct in the administration of those tests at Preuss. –C.M.